Historical Information
First visited by anthropologist Frank Hamilton Cushing in 1883, Casa Malpais was labeled the "Fissure Pueblo" because it is situated on an extensive basalt lava flow. Builders of the pueblo took advantage of volcanic fissures for construction.
The site was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1964. In 1991, with the aid of an State Historical Preservation Office (SHPO) grant, development of the site as a tourist attraction began. Members of the local chapter of the Arizona Archeological Society along with local citizens helped with site development. Casa Malpais Archaeological Park and Museum officially opened in 1993.
The town of Springerville purchased the site in 1991, after extensive negotiations and steps taken to assure continued protection under the Arizona Antiquities Act.
Tours of the site originate at the Museum and are available from March through November, Tuesdays through Saturdays at 9 AM and 1 PM (weather permitting).
The Museum is open year-round, Mondays through Saturdays, closed holidays.
Call for information: 928-333-5375
The site was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1964. In 1991, with the aid of an State Historical Preservation Office (SHPO) grant, development of the site as a tourist attraction began. Members of the local chapter of the Arizona Archeological Society along with local citizens helped with site development. Casa Malpais Archaeological Park and Museum officially opened in 1993.
The town of Springerville purchased the site in 1991, after extensive negotiations and steps taken to assure continued protection under the Arizona Antiquities Act.
Tours of the site originate at the Museum and are available from March through November, Tuesdays through Saturdays at 9 AM and 1 PM (weather permitting).
The Museum is open year-round, Mondays through Saturdays, closed holidays.
Call for information: 928-333-5375
